Metering System For Solid Particulate

ABSTRACT

An improved particulate metering system is provided. The system includes a flow path having an inlet in communication with an intake and an outlet in communication with a discharge. The flow path receives a first input and a plurality of inputs, each of the plurality of inputs having a separate origin. A mixing area within the flow path comprises a confluence of the first input and one or more of the plurality of inputs. One or more metering controls are in operable communication with the first input and the plurality of inputs for controlling a blend of the plurality of inputs at the confluence.

PRIORITY STATEMENT

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/600,621, filed Jan. 20, 2015, which is also entitled “Metering Systemfor Solid Particulate,” all of which is hereby incorporated by referencein its entirety.

BACKGROUND I. Field of the Disclosure

A metering system for solid particulate is disclosed. More specifically,but not exclusively, a metering system with variable blend and variableapplication rate controls for particulate matter, such as dryfertilizers, is disclosed.

II. Description of the Prior Art

Particulate metering systems use varied approaches to control the rateat which particulate is metered and/or blended with other particulatetypes. Particulate metering is complicated by the desire tosimultaneously meter at separate discharge points varying rates andblends of different particulate. In such instances where the particulateis fertilizer, there's a significant interest in controlling the blendand application rate of two or more fertilizers, and specificallycontrolling a variation in the blend and application rate of two or morefertilizers at separate discharge points, such as at separate rows in afield. Further complications surround the growing desire toindependently control variations in both the blend and application rateof particulate for each separate discharge point or a set of dischargepoints. Many desire to control the blend and application rate of two ormore fertilizers independently at each row unit. In other words, what isdesired in at least one application is a dry fertilizer metering systemthat can make adjustments to both the application rate and blend of twoor more fertilizers on a row-by-row basis-one row receiving a blend offertilizers at a desired rate while another row simultaneously receivesthe same or a separate blend of fertilizers at the same or anotherdesired rate.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a particulate metering system withvariable blend and variable application rate controls for separatedischarges or a group of discharges.

A particulate metering system includes a flow path having an inlet incommunication with an intake and an outlet in communication with adischarge. A first input into the flow path is provided. A plurality ofinputs is in communication with the flow path—each of the plurality ofinputs has a separate origin. A mixing area within the flow path is aconfluence of the first input and one or more of the plurality ofinputs. One or more metering controls are in operable communication withthe first input and the plurality of inputs for controlling a ratio ofthe plurality of inputs at the confluence.

The particulate metering system can include a plurality of outputs atthe discharge. The outputs are in communication with the first input bythe flow path. The first input has a metered proportion across theoutputs.

The particulate metering system can include a rate controller. The ratecontroller is in operable control of the one or more metering controlsand controls the introduction rate of the plurality of inputs into theconfluence.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the particulate meteringsystem includes a flow path having an inlet with an intake, an outletwith a plurality of discharges, a plurality of air inputs fluidlyconnected to the plurality of discharges, and an air-particulate output.Two or more particulate sources are provided. The particulate meteringsystem includes a plurality of particulate inputs in communication withthe flow path.

Each of the particulate inputs has a separate origin. A particulate-airmixing area is within the flow path and comprises a confluence of one ofthe air inputs and one or more of the particulate inputs. Operatedconveyances can be in communication with the two or more particulatesources and the particulate-air confluence, each operated conveyancehaving separate discharges.

One or more metering controls can be in operable communication with theair input and the particulate inputs for controlling a blend of theplurality of inputs at the confluence. A plurality of conveyance speedscan be associated with the operated conveyances. The two or moreparticulate sources are operatively connected to the plurality ofparticulate inputs and the one or more metering controls.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, an air flow origin isprovided. The particulate metering system includes a plurality ofparticulate accelerators, a plurality of air-particulate interfaces, amixing area, and an air-particulate output. Each of the particulateaccelerators has an air input. The system includes a plurality ofparticulate sources associated with each of the particulateaccelerators. Each of the particulate sources has a terminal dischargeend at each of the air-particulate interfaces. The air input of each ofthe particulate accelerators receives an air flow from the air floworigin. Each of the particulate accelerators receives particulate fromthe particulate sources across the air-particulate interfaces. Aconfluence of the air flow and the particulate occurs in the mixing areaof each of the particulate accelerators. A plurality of discharges isprovided. Each of the discharges is associated with the air-particulateoutput of each of the plurality of particulate accelerators.

The metering system can include a plurality of operated conveyances incommunication with each of the plurality of particulate accelerators.Each of the operated conveyances can be associated with one of theair-particulate interfaces. A plurality of metering controls can beprovided. The metering controls can be in operative communication withthe particulate sources and the operative conveyances. The plurality ofmetering controls can control the amount of one or more types ofparticulate metered across the air-particulate interfaces.

The metering system can include a first subset of the plurality ofparticulate accelerators and a first subset of the plurality ofdischarges in fluid connection with the first subset of the plurality ofparticulate accelerators. A first mass flow rate can correspondgenerally with the particulate-air confluence at the first subset of theplurality of discharges. The system can include a second subset of theplurality of particulate accelerators and a second subset of theplurality of discharges in fluid connection with the second subset ofthe plurality of particulate accelerators. A second mass flow rate cancorrespond generally with the particulate-air confluence at the secondsubset of the plurality of discharges. The first mass flow rate and thesecond mass flow rate can be unequal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrated embodiments of the disclosure are described in detail belowwith reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporatedby reference herein, and where:

FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of a particulate metering implementin accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of a particulate metering implementin accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 1C is a front perspective view of a base frame assembly inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 1D is a front perspective view of an intermediate frame assembly inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a cross-section view of the particulate metering implement ofFIG. 1B taken along section line 2-2;

FIG. 3A is a front perspective view of a particulate container system inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3B is a front perspective view of a particulate container system inaccordance with another illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a cross-section view of the particulate container system ofFIG. 3A taken along section line 4-4;

FIG. 5 is a cross-section view of the particulate container system ofFIG. 3A taken along section line 5-5;

FIG. 6A is a front perspective view of a portion of a particulatehandling system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6B is a front perspective view of the particulate handling systemat various stages of installation in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of a particulate container inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a bottom tray of a particulate containerin accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a cross-section view of the bottom tray of FIG. 8 taken alongsection line 9-9;

FIG. 10A is a bottom perspective view of a particulate container systemin accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 10B is a top plan view of a particulate container system inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 11A is a front perspective view of a long auger tube in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 11B is a top plan view of a long auger tube in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 11C is a side elevation view of a long auger tube in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 12A is a front perspective view of a particulate accelerator andparticulate handling systems in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 12B is a top plan view of a particulate accelerator and particulatehandling systems in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the particulate accelerator andpartial particulate handling systems of FIG. 12B taken along sectionline 13-13.

FIG. 14 is a front elevation view of an air production system, airhandling system and particulate accelerator system in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 15A is a front perspective view of an air production system, airhandling system and particulate accelerator system in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 15B is a side elevation view of an air production system, airhandling system and particulate accelerator system in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of an expander in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of an air production system and anair handling system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 18 is an exploded isometric view of a plenum and a plenum cover inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 19A is a front perspective of a particulate accelerator inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 19B is a side elevation view of a particulate accelerator inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of a particulate accelerator inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the particulate accelerator of FIG.20 taken along section line 21-21.

FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of an air production system, an airhandling system, a particulate accelerator system, and a particulatehandling system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a bottom plan view of an air production system, an airhandling system, a particulate accelerator system, and a partialparticulate handling system in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 24 is a isometric view of a portion of a dual particulateaccelerator system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and

FIG. 25 is a side elevation view of a portion of a dual particulateaccelerator system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A and 1B show a particulate metering implement 10. While thefigure shows a particulate metering implement, it should be appreciatedby those skilled in the art that the disclosure covers other types ofimplements, including but not limited to, seed meters, nutrientapplicators, and other agricultural equipment. The implement 10 can be atowable trailer, as shown, or integrally formed with a particulateapplication system. As shown in conjunction with FIG. 2, the implementcan include a frame assembly 100, particulate container assembly 200,particulate handling system 300, and air production system 400, airhandling system 500, and particulate accelerator system 600.

Referring to FIGS. 1C and 1D, a base frame assembly 101 is provided. Thebase frame assembly 101 can include a plurality of wheels 102 to permittransportation of the implement 10. The implement 10 can be transportedthrough other means commonly known in the art, including but not limitedto, a tracking system, sled rails, spheres, or the like. The wheels 102can be connected to a transverse base support member 104. The transversebase support member 104, together with two rear longitudinal basesupport members 106, can provide the primary support for intermediateframe assembly 119. Extending anteriorly from the transverse basesupport member 104 can be two front longitudinal base support members108. The two front longitudinal base support members 108 can be shapedto not only connect to the base frame assembly 101 below theintermediate frame assembly 119, but also be connectable at a typicalmounting height. The front longitudinal base support members 108 can bemovably connected to coupling members 110. To support the implement 10when not in use, vertical support members 114 can be adjustably lowered.The vertical support members 114 can be locked into position using adetent structure, transverse locking pin, or any means commonly known inthe art. The implement 10 can be connected to a tractor, but the preventdisclosure contemplates additional operational environments, includingbut not limited to agricultural toolbars, trailers, other farmimplements, and the like.

The intermediate frame assembly 119 can be mounted upon the base frameassembly 101. In particular, longitudinal intermediate support members116 can be connected to rear longitudinal base support members 106. Thelongitudinal intermediate support members 116 can be generally U-shapedto elevate the particulate container (e.g., hopper) assembly 200 abovethe superior aspect of the wheels 102. The configuration can result in afront transverse intermediate support member 118 and a rear transverseintermediate support member 120 extending outwardly above the superioraspect of the wheels 102. The particulate container assembly 200 can bemounted on the front transverse intermediate support member 118 and arear transverse intermediate support member 120. To provide additionalsupport to the front transverse intermediate support member 118 and therear transverse intermediate support member 120, a plurality of braces122 can be provided. The braces 122 can create a truss-like structurebetween the longitudinal intermediate support members 116 and thetransverse intermediate support members; however, the disclosurecontemplates providing reinforcement through any means commonly known inthe art.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the particulate container assembly 200 can bemounted on the frame assembly 100, and more particularly, theintermediate frame assembly 119. The particulate container assembly 200can consist of two particulate containers 202 and 203. The disclosureenvisions any number of particulate containers (e.g., hoppers) can beused. In an embodiment, the particulate containers 202 and 203 can beidentical in structure and function, and symmetrical across Section 2-2of FIG. 1B. In other embodiments, the one or more of the particulatecontainers can be modified without deviating from the objects of thedisclosure. Hereinafter, discussion of particulate container 202 refersto particulate container 202 and its counterpart structure onparticulate container 203.

Referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B and 4, the particulate container 202 caninclude an upper portion 205, middle portion 208 and lower portion 210.The upper portion 205 can be a rectangular prism. The disclosurecontemplates any shape that maximizes volume and/or permits the storageto extend above the wheels 102. A top surface of the upper portion 205can include openings (not shown) covered by one or more lids 204. Thelids 204 can be opened or removed to permit loading of particulate intothe particulate container 202. The middle portion 208 can be a trapeziumprism. The shape can assist in funneling the particulate to the lowerportion 210. The transition from the upper portion 205 to the middleportion 208 can be generally demarcated by frame members 206 disposedaround the perimeter of the middle portion 208 of the particulatecontainer 202. The frame members 206 can have attachment means 212 toconnect the particular container assembly 200 to the frame assembly 100,and more particularly, intermediate frame assembly 119. As shown in FIG.5, the particulate container 202 can have a recessed area 216 on theside wall proximate to opposing particulate container 203. The recessedarea 216 can prevent frame member 206 from extending past the plane ofthe side wall, which maximizes the volume of the particulate container202 while minimizing the space required between the two particulatecontainers 202 and 203. For additional structural support, a pluralityof internal support rods 214 (FIG. 4) can be provided within theinterior of the particulate container 202.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3B, the one or more lids 204 can bepivotally connected to the particulate container 202 with one or morehinges 207. One or more clamps 209 can be mounted on the particulatecontainer 202 proximate the opposing edge of the lids 204 to releasablysecure the lids to the containers. To assist in opening the lids 204, ahandle 211 can be connected to the lids 204 proximate to the clamps 209.Upon opening and/or removal of the lids 204, one or more screens (notshown) can be disposed within the openings of the particulate container202 to prevent debris from entering the same.

Further, the clamps 209 can provide an airtight seal between the lids204 and the particulate container 202. In such an embodiment, theairtight seal can permit the particulate container 202 to bepressurized. In one representative example, the particulate container202 can be pressurized to ten, fifteen, twenty or greater inches ofwater (in H₂O). The pressurization can assist in guiding the particulateto the particulate handling system 300, provide for improved control ofquantities dispensed to the particulate handling system 300, and/orprovide for improved control of the environment in which the particulateis housed.

The lower portion 210 and the middle portion 208 of particulatecontainer 202 can be separated by joining flanges 218, as shownillustratively in FIGS. 3A and 6A. The joining flanges 218 can includematerial extending from the lower portion 210 and the middle portion208, which are then joined by welding or any means commonly known in theart. The lower portion 210 can be a trapezium prism to assist infunneling the particulate to the particulate handling system 300.

The particulate container 202 can include a bottom tray 328. As shown inFIGS. 8 and 9, the bottom tray 328 can include a plurality of gates 308arranged along the length of the tray 328. The gates can be squareand/or rectangular, as shown, or can be of any shape to permitparticulate to enter the particulate delivery system 300. Similarly, thegates can all be the same shape and/or size, or of varied shapes and/orsizes based on the application. The interstitial portions of the bottomtray 328 can be flat, as shown, or can have a wedged-shape configurationto funnel particulate to the plurality of gates 308. The bottom tray 328can be integrally connected to the bottom portion 210 of the particulatecontainer 202, or can be removable to permit a user to quickly install adifferent bottom tray 328 based on the application. The plurality ofgates 308 can further include smaller gates 324 and larger gates 326separated by a raised portion 330. The raised portion 330 can funnel theparticulate into the smaller gates 324 and the larger gates 326 and/oradd structural support along the length of the bottom tray 328.Separating the particulate into a pair of gates (smaller gate 324 andlarger gate 326) can minimize undesirable torqueing of the augers 332(FIGS. 11A and 12B) and/or the auger motor(s) 344 (FIGS. 22 and 23),particularly during initialization of the particulate handling system300.

One or more scales (not shown) can be associated with each of theparticulate containers 202 and 203 (FIG. 4). The scales can beoperatively connected to a control system and configured to weigh eachof the particulate containers 202 and 203. Together with one or moresensors associated with one or more transmissions 306 discussed below,the system can provide real-time and/or post-operation feedback of theexpected volume of particulate dispensed versus actual volume ofparticulate dispensed for each unit row of the field and/or for theoverall particulate metering implement 10. In an embodiment utilizingreal-time feedback, the control system can make adjustments based on thedata provided. Further, the data can be used by the control system todiagnose dysfunctional augers 332 and/or auger motor(s) 344, and/oridentify potential blockages of particulate within the particulatemetering implement 10.

A plurality of moveable and/or controllable gate covers (not shown) canbe installed on the plurality of gates 308 to prevent particulate fromfilling the short auger tubes 304 and the long auger tubes 302 while notin use, which can minimize undesirable torqueing on the augers 332and/or the auger motor(s) 344 during initialization of the particulatehandling system 300. After the augers 332 and the auger motor(s) 344 areoperating at a sufficient speed and torque, the gate covers can beopened to permit particulate to enter the plurality of gates 308.

Referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B and 10A, the particulate delivery system 300can include a plurality of long auger tubes 302 and a plurality of shortauger tubes 304 disposed below the bottom tray 328 of the particulatecontainer 202. The plurality of long auger tubes 302 and a plurality ofshort auger tubes 304 can be constructed in two halves for ease ofmanufacturing, but the present disclosure also contemplates a unitaryconstruction.

Each of the plurality of long auger tubes 302 and the plurality of shortauger tubes 304 can have an input slot 322 disposed within the tubes ina position proximate to the bottom tray 328. Referring to FIGS. 5, 10Band 11A, the input slots 322 can be sized and shaped to receiveparticulate passing through the plurality of gates 308 in the bottomtray 328. An input slot interface 338, including a gasket, as shown inFIG. 11A, can seal the auger tubes 302 and 304 to the inferior side ofbottom tray 328.

An auger motor 344, as shown in FIG. 2, can provide a rotational forceto an input shaft 318, as shown illustratively in FIG. 6A. The inputshaft 318 can span the length of the particulate container 202 and beconfigured to connect to a plurality of transmission input shaftreceivers 316 to drive a plurality of transmissions 306. The pluralityof transmissions 306 can be mounted on the auger tube support beam 312.The plurality of transmissions 306 can be connected through pins 320 orany other means of connection commonly known in the art. Referring toFIGS. 11A and 11B, an auger 332 contained within the auger tubes 302 and304 can be connected to a transmission 306 with a shaft 314 disposed onthe side opposite the auger. The speed and torque of the pluralityaugers 332 can be determined by the speed and torque provided by theauger motor 344 via the plurality of transmissions 306. In anembodiment, a sensor (not shown) monitors the revolutions per minute(RPM) of the shafts 314.

In an embodiment, motors can be connected to and power each of theplurality of augers 332. In such an instance, the plurality oftransmissions 306, as shown in FIG. 6A, can be replaced with a pluralityof motors mounted on the auger tube support beam 312 or any othersuitable location. Each of the plurality of motors can be operativelyconnected to a control system to generate desired speed of each auger332, of a group or bank of augers 332, or of all augers 332.

The particulate contained in the particulate container 202 passesthrough the plurality of gates 308 and the input slot 322 of a longauger tube 302. Referring to FIGS. 6A, 11A, 11B and 11C, an auger driveshaft 336 can be rotatably connected to a transmission 306 by a bearing334. Upon receiving an input force from the auger motor 344 via atransmission 306, the auger drive shaft 336 rotates the auger 332. Thehelical nature of the auger 332 can transmit the particulate containedwithin the long auger tube 302 towards a long auger tube-particulateaccelerator interface edge 340, as shown in FIG. 13. The processdescribed above can also occur for the plurality of short auger tubes304. Specifically, the auger 332 can transmit the particulate containedwithin short auger tube 304 towards a short auger tube-particulateaccelerator interface edge 342. While the embodiment can utilize anauger, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that thedisclosure covers other means of transmitting the material through atube, including but not limited to, hydraulic pistons, pneumatics, andthe like.

A gasket 341 can provide a seal proximate to the long augertube-particulate accelerator interface edge 340 and the short augertube-particulate accelerator interface edge 342. The gasket 341 canpermit the short auger tube 304 and long auger tube 302 to flex withinthe particulate accelerators due to movement of the system as theparticulate containers 202 and 203 are emptied, experience vibration,and the like.

In an embodiment best shown in FIG. 6B, each of the plurality of longauger tubes 302 and a plurality of short auger tubes 304 can be disposedbetween two hangars 309 affixed to the bottom section 228 of theparticulate container 202. The hangars 309 can be welded to thecontainer, or can be affixed by any means commonly known in the art,including but not limited to, nut and bolt, screws, rivets, soldering,and the like. Extending outwardly along the length of the hangars 309can be two guide surfaces 358. As discussed below, a guide surface 358from adjacent hangars 309 can be adapted to receive a long auger tube302 or a short auger tube 304. The hangars 309 can include two parallelprongs 319 extending outwardly from a front surface of the hangars 309.The prongs 319 can be cylindrical or can be of any shape commonly knownin the art to engage and/or secure a transmission 306. Further, whiletwo prongs 319 are shown in FIG. 6B, the present disclosure contemplatesany number of prongs without deviating from the objects of thedisclosure.

FIG. 6B further illustrates a plurality of particulate handling systems300 at various stages of installation. Beginning below so-called SectorA, two hangars 309 can be connected to the bottom surface of theparticulate container 202, as discussed above. The hangars 309 can beparallel to one another and spaced to provide for installation of a longauger tube 302 or short auger tube 304. The long auger tube 302 or shortauger tube 304 can be installed by sliding a lower surface of the inputslot 322 along guide surfaces 358, one from each of the adjacent hangars309, as shown illustratively below Sector B. The advantageous designpermits for ease of installation as well as removal and reinstallationshould a long auger tube 302, short auger tube 304 and/or an auger 332needs to be repaired or replaced with the same or different component.As illustrated below Sector C, a shaft 314 can be installed over theauger drive shaft 336. The installation of the shaft 314 over the augerdrive shaft 336 can occur either before or after the long auger tube 302or short auger tube 304 has been installed between hangars 309.Thereafter, a transmission 306 can be oriented such that mounting holes360 are aligned with the prongs 319 on the hangars 309, as shownillustratively below Sector D. After installation of the transmission306 on the shaft 314, a pin 362 can be installed to rotatably engageauger drive shaft 336 and the shaft 314, and a pin 364 can be installedto axially secure the shaft 314 on auger drive shaft 336, as shownillustratively below Sector E. Further, securing means commonly known inthe art can be used to secure the transmission 306 to the prongs 319.The installation process described above can be repeated for each rowunit along the length of each of the particulate containers 202 and 203.The input shaft 318 can extend through and engage the plurality oftransmission receivers 316 in each of the transmissions 306.

Each of the transmissions 306 can have a clutch (not shown) in operablecommunication with a control system. At the direction of the user orbased on instruction from the particulate metering system 10, thecontrol system can engage/disengage one or more predetermined clutchesin order to activate/deactivate the associated one or more screwconveyors.

As shown illustratively in FIG. 6B, and more particularly below SectorD, each of the two prongs 319 of the one hangar 309 can be connected toadjacent transmissions 306. In other words, an upper prong of a hangarcan be connected to one gearbox while a lower prong of the same hangarcan be connected to an adjacent gearbox. The arrangement is due to anadvantageous design of the transmissions 306, which can permit one ormore transmissions 306 to be removed, inverted and reattached to thesame two prongs as previously connected. The inversion of a transmission306 can provide several advantages over the state of the art. First, inan inverted position, one or more of the transmissions 306 can bedisengaged from the input shaft 318 based on the needs of theapplication (e.g., in at least one instance, where one or more of therows in the field does not require particulate metering). Second, asecond input shaft (not shown) can be implemented and adapted to engagethe one or more transmissions 306 placed in an inverted position (e.g.,in another instance, one or more of the rows can be metered at adifferent rate). The second input shaft can also extend the length ofthe particulate container 202 and can be parallel to the input shaft318. In such an embodiment, the user can invert one transmission or caninvert multiple transmissions to permit desired groupings of the same(e.g., every four transmissions, every other transmission, etc.) basedon the needs of the operation and/or application. Furthermore, togetherwith the same opinion for the companion particulate handling system 300associated with the second particulate container 203, the potentialconfigurations can permit precise control over the blends of theparticulate from the containers as well as application rates in whichthe blends are metered.

In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of long auger tubes 302 andthe plurality of short auger tubes 304 can be secured below the bottomtray 328 by an auger tube support beam 312 and auger tube couplers 310,as shown illustratively in FIGS. 3, 5, 6A and 10A. The auger tubesupport beam 312 can be generally-U shaped with a plurality ofcylindrical openings, as shown in FIG. 6A. The auger tube couplers 310can be substantially ring-shaped with a flange configured to connect tothe lower portion 210 of particulate container 202, as shownillustratively in FIG. 3A.

In concurrent operation with the particulate delivery system 300 can bean air production system 400 and an air handling system 500. FIGS. 14,15A and 15B illustrate a blower 402 of the air production system 400.The blower 402 is driven by a blower motor 403, as shown in FIG. 23. Inan embodiment, a representative blower can operate at 20 horsepower (HP)and produce a volumetric flow rate of 120-150 cubic feet per minute(CFM) per row in operation. The disclosure also contemplates the blower402 operating at variable RPM. In such instances, the blower 402 canrequire less horsepower than operating at a constant RPM. Operating theblower 402 at a constant RPM or variable RPM can be tailored to thespecific demands of the particulate metering system 10 in a givenapplication.

Referring to FIG. 16, an inlet 409 side of an extension 408 can beconnected to the blower 402 at an interface 404 to couple the blower 402to the air handling system 500. The interface 404 between the blower 402and the extender 404 can be flanges on an outlet of the blower 402 andan inlet of the extension 408 configured to be joined by nuts and bolts,or other means such as pinning, clamping, welding, and the like. Theextension 408 can be comprised of a plurality of triangular-shapedsurfaces 412 designed to impart desired flow properties as air entersthe air handling system 500. The disclosure envisions alternativecharacteristics for the extension 408, including but not limited to, acircular cross-section, a nozzle, an expander, and the like. Theextension 408 can be made of steel, but the disclosure contemplatesother materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites, ceramics, andthe like. An outlet 411 side of the extension 408 can have a plate 406with slots 414. The plate 406 and slots 414 can connect to the coupler410 of the air handling system 500, as shown illustratively in FIGS. 15Aand 15B.

After exiting the extension 408, the air generated by blower 402 canenter a plenum 502 of the air handling system 500. Referring to FIGS.15A and 15B, the air handling system 500 can be comprised of a plenum502 and a plurality of outlet pipes 508. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18,the plenum can contain a first side wall 504, second side wall 506, abottom wall 512 and a distal wall 510. The second side wall 506 can beopposite the first side wall 504. The first side wall 504 and the secondside wall 506 can contain a plurality of outwardly extending flanges514. A cover 509 can be removably connected to the first side wall 504and the second side wall 506. Referring to FIG. 18, the cover 509 canhave flanges 518 extending inferiorly along the length of the cover 509.The flanges 518 can have a plurality of gaps 520 corresponding to theplurality of outwardly extending flanges 514 of the first side wall 504and the second side wall 506. The plurality of gaps 520 can engage theplurality of outwardly extending flanges 514 to align the cover 509 onthe plenum 502. An opening 522 in the cover 509 can allow a user to lockthe cover into position on the plenum 502.

A plurality of apertures 516 can be disposed within the bottom wall 512of the plenum 502. As shown in FIG. 18, the plurality of apertures 516can be arranged in two rows along the length of the plenum 502. The tworows of apertures 516 along the length of the plenum 502 can bestaggered longitudinally, as shown illustratively in FIGS. 15A, 15B and17, to maximize compactness of the particulate accelerators 601 disposedbelow the plenum and/or to impart the desired airflow characteristics.The plurality of apertures 516 can be elliptical in shape. Thedisclosure, however, envisions other arrangements and/or shapes of theplurality of apertures without detracting from the objects of thedisclosure. For example, the plurality of apertures 516 can be arrangedin one row along the length of the plenum 502, or the plurality ofapertures 516 can be rectangular in shape. The disclosure alsocontemplates the plurality of apertures disposed the first side wall504, the second side wall 506, and/or the cover 509.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the first side wall 504 and the secondside wall 506 can be trapezoidal in shape. In other words, at the edgeproximate to the extension 408, the height of the first side wall 504and the second side wall 506 is greater than the height of the sameproximate to the distal wall 510. The tapering of the plenum 502 canmaintain the appropriate pressure and airflow characteristics along itslength as air exits the plenum 502 through the plurality of apertures516.

A plurality of outlet pipes 508 can be connected to the bottom wall 512of the plenum 502. Each of the plurality of outlet pipes 508 can beassociated with each of the plurality of apertures 516. The outlet pipes508 can be cylindrical in shape, but the disclosure envisions differentshapes, including oval, ellipsoid, rectangular, square, and the like.The outlet pipes 508 can be secured to the bottom wall 512 by meanscommonly known in the art, including but not limited to, pinning,welding, fastening, clamping, and the like. The outlet pipes 508 can beoriented such that an acute angle exists between the major axis of theoutlet pipes 508 and the bottom wall 512 of the plenum 502. Theorientation of the outlet pipes 508 can impart the appropriate flowcharacteristics as air transitions from the plenum 502 to theparticulate accelerator system 600. Based on the orientation of thecylindrical outlet pipes 508 relative to the plenum 502, the pluralityof apertures 516 can be elliptical.

After passing through the plenum 502 and outlet pipes 508, air generatedby the blower 402 can enter a particulate accelerator system 600. Asshown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, each of the plurality of particulateaccelerators 601 can connect to each of the plurality of outlet pipes508.

Referring to FIGS. 19A and 19B, each of the plurality of particulateaccelerators 601 can have an inlet 604 and an outlet 602. The inlet 604can connect to one of the plurality of outlet pipes 508 of the plenum502 via holes 620. The connection can be through a screw or any othermeans so as not to significant impede the airflow through the outletpipe 508 and/or the inlet 604. In an embodiment, a locking pin (notshown) engages the holes 620 and can provide for quick installationand/or removal of a particulate accelerator 601 on the plenum 502,thereby increasing the modularity of the system.

A housing 609 can be connected to the inlet 604 and/or the outlet 602.The housing 609 can be comprised of two halves 605 and 607 that aresecured together through a plurality of clasps 610, as shown in FIG. 20.The housing 609, however, can be composed of a single structure. Theparticulate accelerator 601 can be made of steel, but the disclosurecontemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites,ceramics, and the like. An inlet tube 608 and/or an outlet tube 606 canextend from the housing 609. The housing 609 can be integrally formed tothe inlet tube 608 and/or the outlet tube 606. A plurality of triangularmembers 622 can provide support for the inlet tube 608 and/or the outlettube 606, as shown in FIG. 19B.

The main body 611 of the housing 609 can be generally cylindrical inshape. The main body 611 can have curved back wall 612 comprising an arcfrom the inlet tube 608 to the outlet tube 606. Adjacent to the curvedback wall 612 can be opposing side walls 624. The opposing side walls624 can be parallel to one another and generally parallel to thedirection of airflow through the particulate accelerator 601. Referringto FIG. 19, a cylindrical flange 634 can extend outwardly andperpendicularly from each of the opposing side walls 624. A cylindricalflange 634 can have an outer surface 626, an inner surface 616, and asloped surface 614. A cylindrical flange 634 can have a center opening618. The sloped surface 614 can guide one of the long augertube-particulate accelerator interface edges 340 of the plurality oflong auger tubes 304 to connect with the inner surface 616. Within acylindrical flange 634 disposed on the opposing side wall 624, a slopedsurface 614 can guide one of the short auger tube-particulateaccelerator interface edges 342 of the plurality of short auger tubes302 to connect with an inner surface 616.

As mentioned above, the gasket 341 (FIG. 13) can provide a seal betweenthe plurality of short and long auger tubes 302 and 304 and the innersurfaces 616 of the particulate accelerators 601. The gasket 341 canmaintain the seal while permitting flexing of the short auger tube 304and long auger tube 302 within the particulate accelerator 601 due tomovement of the system as the particulate containers 202 and 203 areemptied, experience vibration, and the like. The distal portions of thelong auger tubes 302 and the short auger tubes 304 can create aninterference fit with the gaskets 341. The auger tubes 302 and 304 canbe connected to the cylindrical flanges 634 through other means commonlyknown in the art, including but not limited to, pinning, clamping,fastening, adhesion, and the like. The outward projections of thecylindrical flanges 634 can result in gaps 628 within the opposing sidewalls 624, as shown in FIG. 21.

The auger 332 can transmit the particulate contained within the longauger tube 302 towards the long auger tube-particulate acceleratorinterface edge 340, as shown in FIGS. 12B and 13. Another auger 332 canalso transmit the particulate contained within the short auger tube 304towards the short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge 342.Referring now to FIG. 21, particulate from the long auger tube 302 canenter the particulate accelerator 601 through the center opening 618.The same process involving the short auger tube 304 can occur on theopposing side wall 624 of the particulate accelerator 601. Upon reachingthe interface edges 340 and 342 of the center openings 618, theparticulate mixture can descend vertically within the main body 611 dueto the force of gravity.

Referring to FIGS. 19A, 19B and 21, air can enter a particulateaccelerator 601 through the inlet 604, inlet tube 608, and inlettransition zone 632. The inlet transition zone 632 can be characterizedas the point at which air enters the main body 611 from the inlet tube608. Due to the shape of the particulate accelerator 601, particularlythe angle 648 between the inlet tube 608 and the outlet tube 606, theair can track in a flow pattern around the curved back wall 612 towardsan outlet transition zone 630. In an embodiment, the angle 648 between aline 646 parallel to the major axis of the inlet tube 608 and a line 640parallel to the major axis of the outlet tube 606 can be acute, as shownin FIG. 19B. In another embodiment, the angle 648 between the line 646of the inlet tube 608 and the line 640 of the outlet tube 606 can bebetween thirty and sixty degrees. The disclosure also contemplates thatangles 648 can be at a right angle or obtuse angle based on the desireflow characteristics through the particulate accelerator 601.

While air is tracking in a flow pattern around the curved back wall 612towards an outlet transition zone 630, the air can mix with theparticulate descending vertically in the particulate accelerator 601 andcan force at least a portion of the particulate mixture through theoutlet 602. Any portion of the particulate mixture and air not ejectedthrough the outlet transition zone 630 can track in a flow along thecurved front wall 636 of the main body 611, after which the particulatemixture and air can rejoin subsequent airflow from the inlet 604proximate to the inlet transition zone 632.

Referring to FIG. 19B, an acute angle 644 can exist between the majoraxis 640 of the outlet tube 606 and a vertical axis 638 bisecting thecenter opening 618 of the cylindrical flange 634. The acute angle 644can result in a greater distance for the particulate to descendvertically prior to contacting a bottom portion of the curved back wall612. The greater distance can provide for increased time for the air,which can be tracking in a flow pattern around the curved back wall 612,to impart horizontal force on the particulate mixture while in theoutlet transition zone 630. Due to the shape of the particulateaccelerator 601, the configuration can create a fluid bed to suspend theparticulate as the particulate exits the outlet 602 and into a dischargetube (not shown). The fluid bed and particulate suspension can reducethe effects of wall friction between the particulate and the dischargetube. In particular, the fluid bed and particulate suspension cancounteract the gravitational force on particulate traveling in agenerally horizontal tube and can minimize interaction between theparticulate and the bottom portion of a tube. The configuration canminimize increased backpressure due to wall friction and/or partialclogging. The fluid bed and particulate suspension can further eliminatecomplete clogging, resulting in improved particular discharge andoverall efficiency of the metering system.

After the particulate mixture exits particulate accelerator 601 via airexit outlet 602, the particulate mixture can enter a tube (not shown)connected to the outlet 602 via holes 620. Then, the particulate mixturecan be metered to a field in any manner commonly known in the art.

Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the process described above cansimultaneously occur in each particulate accelerator 601 disposed alongthe length of the plenum 502. As shown in FIG. 22, for example, theparticulate handling system 300 can include eighteen short auger tubes302 opposite eighteen long auger tubes 304. The disclosure, however,contemplates that any number of particulate handling subsystems 301 and303 can be provided. In an exemplary example, the particulate handlingsystem 300 can include thirty-six short auger tubes 302 oppositethirty-six long auger tubes 304, each row operated independently. Inanother exemplary example, the particulate handling system 300 can bescaled down to less than eighteen pairs of particulate handlingsubsystems 301 and 303 based on the needs of the application.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 22, each of the eighteen pairs ofauger tubes 302 and 304 can be separated by a particulate accelerator600 and connected to the air handling system 500 and the air productionsystem 400. A first row of particulate handling subsystems 301 canreceive a first type of particulate from first particulate container202. A second row of particulate handling subsystems 303 can receive asecond type of particulate from second particulate container 203. In anembodiment that uses a plurality of auger motors 344 connected to aplurality of augers 332, the configuration can permit control of theratio of first type of particulate to second types of particulate forsome or all of the eighteen pairs of particulate handling subsystems 301and 303. In an exemplary embodiment of the dual particulate acceleratorsystem 700 discussed below, the configuration can permit control of theratio of four or more types of particulate for each of the eighteenpairs of particulate handling subsystems 301 and 303.

As discussed above, a plurality of moveable and/or controllable gatecovers (not shown) can be installed on the plurality of gates 308. Thegate covers, when closed, can prevent particulate from filling the shortauger tubes 304 and/or long auger tubes 302. The configuration canfurther increase the modularity of the metering system 10 by limitingwhich rows on a field, if any, receive one or more of the types ofparticulate. The gate covers can be manually and/or automatically openedand closed.

Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, a dual particulate accelerator system 700is provided. The dual particulate accelerator system 700 can include afirst particulate accelerator 701 and a second particulate accelerator703. The first particulate accelerator housing 709 can be connected tothe inlet tube 706 and/or the outlet tube 724 of the first particulateaccelerator 701. A baffle 744 can be disposed within the inlet tube 706of the first particulate accelerator 701. The baffle 744 can extend fromoutside the inlet tube 706 and into the first particulate acceleratorhousing 709. The baffle 744 can restrict the flow of air through inlettube 706 to impart the desired airflow characteristics in the firstparticulate accelerator 701. The baffle 744 can be placed in the inlettube 706 of the first accelerator 701, or at any point within the flowof air to impart the desired airflow characteristics. The baffle 744 canbe self-regulating, adjustable and/or controlled by any means commonlyknown in the art, including but not limited to, mechanical, electrical,electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulic controls.

The first particulate accelerator 701 can include an inlet 702, an inlettube 706, and an outlet tube 724. The first particulate acceleratorhousing 709 can be integrally formed to the inlet tube 706 and/or theoutlet tube 724 of the first particulate accelerator 701. The firstparticulate accelerator housing 709 can be comprised of two halves aresecured together through a plurality of clasps and/or engaged holes 718,as shown in FIG. 24. The housing 709, however, can be composed of asingle structure. The first particulate accelerator 701 can be made ofsteel, but the disclosure contemplates other materials such as aluminum,polymers, composites, ceramics, and the like. A plurality of triangularmembers 733 can provide support for the inlet tube 706 and/or the outlettube 724 of the first particulate accelerator 701, as shown in FIG. 25.

A first main body 711 of the first particulate accelerator housing 709can be generally cylindrical in shape. The first main body 711 can havefirst curved back wall 708 comprising an arc from the inlet tube 706 tothe outlet tube 724 of the first particulate accelerator 701. Adjacentto the first curved back wall 708 can be opposing side walls 710. Theopposing side walls 710 can be parallel to one another and generallyparallel to the direction of airflow through the first particulateaccelerator 701. Referring to FIG. 24, a cylindrical flange 715 canextend outwardly and perpendicularly from each of the opposing sidewalls 710. The cylindrical flange 715 can have an outer surface, aninner surface 712, and a sloped surface 717. The cylindrical flange 715can have a center opening 716. The sloped surface 717 can guide the longauger tube-particulate accelerator interface edges 340 of the pluralityof long auger tubes 304 to connect with the inner surface 712. Within acylindrical flange 715 disposed on the opposing side wall 710, a slopedsurface 717 can guide the short auger tube-particulate acceleratorinterface edges 342 of the plurality of short auger tubes 302 to connectwith the inner surface 712. A gasket can provide a seal between theplurality of short and long auger tubes 302 and 304 and the innersurfaces 712 of the first particulate accelerator 701. The gasket canmaintain the seal while permitting flexing of the short auger tube 304and long auger tube 302 within the first particulate accelerator 701 dueto movement of the system as the particulate containers 202 and 204 areemptied, experience vibration, and the like. The distal portions of thelong auger tubes 302 and the short auger tubes 304 can create aninterference fit with the gaskets. The auger tubes 302 and 304 can beconnected to the cylindrical flanges 717 through other means commonlyknown in the art, including but not limited to, pinning, clamping,fastenings, adhesion, and the like. The outward projections of thecylindrical flanges 715 can result in gaps 714 within the opposing sidewalls 710, as shown in FIG. 25.

Likewise, the second particulate accelerator 703 can include an inlettube 722, an outlet tube 720, and an outlet 704. The inlet tube 722 ofthe second particulate accelerator 703 can be connected to the outlettube 724 of the first particulate accelerator 701 at junction 734.

A second particulate accelerator housing 705 can be connected to theinlet tube 722 and/or the outlet tube 720 of the second particulateaccelerator 703. The baffle 736 can extend from the outlet tube 724 ofthe first particulate accelerator 701, though junction 734, and into thesecond particulate accelerator housing 705. The baffle 736 can restrictthe flow of air through inlet tube 722 to impart the desired airflowcharacteristics in the second particulate accelerator 703. The baffle736 can be placed in the inlet tube 722 of the second accelerator 703,or at any point within the flow of air to impart the desired airflowcharacteristics. The baffle 736 can be self-regulating, adjustableand/or controlled by any means commonly known in the art, including butnot limited to, mechanical, electrical, electronic, pneumatic, andhydraulic controls. The baffle 744 can also be similarly disposed onparticulate accelerator 601 consistent with the objects of thedisclosure.

The second particulate accelerator housing 705 can be integrally formedto the inlet tube 722 and/or the outlet tube 720 of the secondparticulate accelerator 703. The second particulate accelerator housing705 can be comprised of two halves are secured together through aplurality of clasps and/or engaged holes 718, as shown in FIG. 24. Thehousing 705, however, can be composed of a single structure. The secondparticulate accelerator 703 can be made of steel, but the disclosurecontemplates other materials such as aluminum, polymers, composites,ceramics, and the like. A plurality of triangular members 733 canprovide support for the inlet tube 722 and/or the outlet tube 720 of thesecond particulate accelerator 703, as shown in FIG. 25.

A second main body 707 of the second particulate accelerator housing 705can be generally cylindrical in shape. The second main body 707 can havesecond curved back wall 740 comprising an arc from the inlet tube 722 tothe outlet tube 720 of the second particulate accelerator 703. Adjacentto the curved back wall 740 can be opposing side walls 738. The opposingside walls 738 can be parallel to one another and generally parallel tothe direction of airflow through the first particulate accelerator 703.Referring to FIG. 24, a cylindrical flange 732 can extend outwardly andperpendicularly from the opposing side walls 738. The cylindrical flange732 can have an outer surface, an inner surface 738, and a slopedsurface 730. The cylindrical flange 732 can have a center opening 726.The sloped surface 730 can guide the long auger tube-particulateaccelerator interface edges 340 of the plurality of long auger tubes 304to connect the inner surface 738. Within a cylindrical flange 732disposed on the opposing side wall 738, a sloped surface 730 can guidethe short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edges 342 of theplurality of short auger tubes 302 to connect with the inner surface738. A gasket can provide a seal between the plurality of short and longauger tubes 302 and 304 and the inner surfaces 728 of the secondparticulate accelerator 703. The gasket can maintain the seal whilepermitting flexing of the short auger tube 304 and long auger tube 302within the second particulate accelerator 703 due to movement of thesystem as the particulate containers 202 and 204 are emptied, experiencevibration, and the like. The distal portions of the long auger tubes 302and the short auger tubes 304 can create an interference fit with thegaskets. The auger tubes 302 and 304 can be connected to the cylindricalflanges 732 through other means commonly known in the art, including butnot limited to, pinning, clamping, fastening, adhesion, and the like.The outward projections of the cylindrical flanges 732 can result ingaps 742 within the opposing side walls 740, as shown in FIG. 25.

An auger 332 can transmit the particulate contained within a long augertube 302 towards a long auger tube-particulate accelerator interfaceedge 340, as shown in FIGS. 12B and 13. Another auger 332 can alsotransmit the particulate contained within a short auger tube 304 towardsa short auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge 342. Referringnow to FIG. 24, particulate from the long auger tube 302 can enter thefirst particulate accelerator 701 through the center opening 716. Thesame process involving the short auger tube 304 can occur on theopposing side wall 738 of the second particulate accelerator 703. Uponreaching interface edges 340 and 342 of center opening 716, theparticulate mixture, consisting of a controlled ratio of a plurality ofparticulates, can descend vertically within the first main body 711 dueto the force of gravity.

The same process can occur in the second particulate accelerator 703. Anauger 332 can transmit the particulate contained within a long augertube towards a long auger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge340, as shown in FIGS. 12B and 13. Another auger 332 can also transmitthe particulate contained within a short auger tube 304 towards a shortauger tube-particulate accelerator interface edge 342. The particulatefrom the long auger tube 302 can enter the second particulateaccelerator 703 through the center opening 726. The same processinvolving the short auger tube 304 can occur on the opposite side wall710 of the second particulate accelerator 703. Upon reaching theinterface edges 340 and 342 of the center opening 726, the particulatemixture, consisting of a controlled ratio of a plurality ofparticulates, can descend vertically within the second main body 707 dueto the force of gravity.

Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, air can enter the first particulateaccelerator 701 through the inlet 702 and the inlet tube 706. Due to theshape of the first particulate accelerator 701, air can track in a flowpattern around the curved back wall 708 towards the outlet tube 724. Inthe process, air can mix with the particulate mixture descendingvertically in the first particulate accelerator 701 and can force aportion of the particulate mixture through outlet tube 724. Any portionof the particulate mixture and air not ejected through the outlet tube724 of the first particulate accelerator 701 can track in a flow along acurved front wall of main body 711, after which the particulate mixtureand air can rejoin subsequent airflow from the inlet 702.

The air-particulate mixture exiting the first particulate accelerator701 can enter the inlet tube 722 of the second particulate accelerator703. The air-particulate mixture can track in a flow pattern around thecurved back wall 740 towards the outlet tube 720 and outlet 704. In theprocess, the air-particulate mixture can further mix with a secondparticulate mixture descending vertically in the second particulateaccelerator 703 and can force a portion of the particulate mixturethrough outlet tube 720. Any portion of the particulate mixture and airnot ejected through the outlet tube 720 of the second particulateaccelerator 703 can track in a flow along a curved front wall of mainbody 707, after which the particulate mixture and air can rejoinsubsequent air-particulate mixture from the inlet tube 722 of the secondparticulate accelerator 703.

The air-particulate mixture exiting outlet 704 can include a blend ofparticulates mixed in the first particulate accelerator 701 and a blendof particulates mixed in the second particulate accelerator 703. In oneembodiment, the process can permit fine control of four types ofparticulate without sacrificing loss of airflow efficiency. After theparticulate mixture and air can enter a tube (not shown) connected tothe outlet 704, the particulate mixture can be metered to a field in anymanner commonly known in the art. The process described above cansimultaneously occur in each dual particulate accelerator system 700disposed along the length of the plenum 502. As shown in FIG. 22, forexample, the particulate handling system 300 can include eighteen shortauger tubes 304 opposite eighteen long auger tubes 302. Each of theeighteen pairs of auger tubes 302 and 304 can be separated by a dualparticulate accelerator system 700 and connected to the air handlingsystem 500 and the air production system 400.

The disclosure is not to be limited to the particular embodimentsdescribed herein. In particular, the disclosure contemplates numerousvariations in the type of ways in which embodiments of the disclosurecan be applied to metering systems with variable blend and variableapplication rate controls for particulate matter. The foregoingdescription has been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list or limit any ofthe disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. It is contemplated thatother alternatives or exemplary aspects that are considered included inthe disclosure. The description is merely examples of embodiments,processes or methods of the disclosure. It is understood that any othermodifications, substitutions, and/or additions can be made, which arewithin the intended spirit and scope of the disclosure. For theforegoing, it can be seen that the disclosure accomplishes at least allof the intended objectives.

The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodimentsfor implementing the disclosure and is not intended to be limiting inscope. The following claims set forth a number of the embodiments of thedisclosure disclosed with greater particularity.

What is claimed is:
 1. A particulate metering system, comprising: aparticulate bin for housing a particulate; a flow path with: a. an inletin communication with an intake configured to receive pressurized airfor suspending particulate in air for agriculture applications; b. anoutlet in communication with a discharge configured to dispenseparticulate suspended in air for agriculture applications; a fan havingan air output providing pressurized air into an air input of the flowpath; a particulate input in communication with the flow path, theparticulate input having an origin at the particulate bin; a mixing areawithin the flow path comprising a confluence of the air input and two ormore of the particulate input, wherein the mixing area comprisesopposing particulate input spaced apart by the air input; and one ormore metering control in operable communication with the air input andthe particulate input for controlling a blend of the two or more of theparticulate input and the air input at the confluence.
 2. Theparticulate system of claim 1 further comprising: a plurality of theparticulate input, wherein each of the plurality of the particulateinput have a separate origin at the particulate bin.
 3. The particulatesystem of claim 1 further comprising: a plurality of the flow path and aplurality of gas-particulate outputs at the discharge, the plurality ofgas-particulate outputs in communication with the air input and whereinthe air input has a metered proportion across the plurality ofgas-particulate outputs.
 4. The particulate system of claim furthercomprising: a. a first particulate input having a first input into achamber housing the mixing area and a second particulate input having asecond input into the chamber, wherein the first and second input arespaced apart by corridor of the chamber.
 5. The particulate system ofclaim 1 further comprising: a first operated conveyance of the one ormore metering controls, the first operated conveyance disposed within afirst one of the opposing particulate input.
 6. The particulate systemof claim 1 further comprising: a second operated conveyance of the oneor more metering controls, the second operated conveyance disposedwithin a second one of the opposing particulate input.
 7. Theparticulate system of claim 1 further comprising: a generally circularair chamber having a diameter greater than the particulate inputs andhousing the mixing area wherein air from the air input and theparticulate have generally the same conveyance speed at a mixing areaoutlet.
 8. A particulate metering system for agriculture applications,comprising: a flow path having: a. an inlet with an intake configured toreceive a stream of pressurized air for suspending particulate in thestream of pressurized air for agriculture applications; b. an outletwith a discharge configured to dispense particulate suspended in thestream of pressurized air for agriculture applications; c. an air inputconnected to the intake for providing the stream of pressurized air intothe intake; d. an air-particulate output at the discharge; a particulatesource housed in a particulate bin in the flow path between the intakeand the discharge; a particulate input in communication with the flowpath between the intake and the discharge; a particulate intake betweenthe particulate input and operated conveyance; a particulate-air mixingarea within the flow path comprising a confluence of the pressurizedstream of air and particulate from the particulate source; wherein theparticulate-air mixing area is disposed between a pair of the operatedconveyances and a pair of the particulate intake.
 9. The particulatemetering system of claim 8, wherein the particulate-air mixing areacomprises opposing particulate input spaced apart by the air input. 10.The particulate metering system of claim 8 further comprising: anoperated conveyance enclosure housing the operated conveyance betweenthe particulate-air mixing area and the particulate intake.
 11. Theparticulate metering system of claim 8, further comprising: a firstoperated conveyance enclosure operably attached to a chamber housing theparticulate-air mixing area and a second operated conveyance enclosureoperably attached to the chamber housing the particulate-air mixingarea, wherein the first and second operated conveyance are spaced apartby the chamber housing the particulate-air mixing area.
 12. Theparticulate metering system of claim 8 further comprising: a first oneof the particulate intake into a first operated conveyance enclosureseparated from a second on of the particulate intake into a secondoperated conveyance enclosure.
 13. The particulate metering system ofclaim 8, further comprising: a chamber housing the particulate-airmixing area, wherein the chamber is separated from the particulateintake by the operated conveyance.
 14. A particulate metering system,the system comprising: an air flow source; a particulate accelerator,having: a. an air input operably connected to the air flow source andthe particulate accelerator; b. a pair of particulate input operablyconnected to and disposed on opposing sides of the particulateaccelerator; c. a pair of air-particulate interfaces spaced apart by theair input; d. a mixing area, wherein the pair of particulate interfacesare spaced apart by the mixing area; e. an air-particulate outputopposite the air input; a particulate source having a discharge intoeach of the pair of air-particulate interfaces; a confluence of air fromthe air input and particulate from the particulate source in the mixingarea of the particulate accelerator; and an air-particulate dischargeoperably connected in communication with the air-particulate output ofthe particulate accelerator; wherein air from the air input isintroduced into the mixing area between the pair of air-particulateinterfaces.
 15. The particulate metering system of claim 14 furthercomprising: a chamber housing the mixing area and having opposing sidesterminating at the opposing pair of air-particulate interfaces.
 16. Theparticulate metering system of claim 14 further comprising: a chamberhousing the mixing area, wherein the chamber is generally disposedoutside the pair of particulate input.
 17. The particulate meteringsystem of claim 14 further comprising: an orbital contoured chamberhousing the particulate accelerator.
 18. The particulate metering systemof claim 14, wherein the mixing area is bounded on opposing sides by afirst and second one of the air-particulate interfaces.
 19. Theparticulate metering system of claim 14 further comprising: a first oneof the pair of particulate interfaces connected by a first operatedconveyance to the particulate source; a second one of the pair ofparticulate interfaces connected by a second operated conveyance to theparticulate source; wherein the first and second operated conveyance arespaced apart by the particulate accelerator.
 20. The particulate systemof claim 14 further comprising: a metering control at the pair ofair-particulate interfaces for controlling a blend of the particulateand air in the mixing area.